Serological Qualities of Some Anti-Globulin (Coombs') Reagents

A limited serological comparison of six commercial and two non-commercial anti-globulin reagents was made to assist in the standardization of one of the non-commercial products. Many of the reagents failed to detect cells sensitized by different weak antibodies and some gave false-positive reactions with enzyme-treated cells. Since the anti-globulin test is the mainstay of the modern compatibility test or "cross-match" and has many other important clinical applications, its failure to detect clinically significant antibodies may put the patient at risk. On that account laboratories are advised to test such reagents thoroughly and to choose that product which gives the best and most reproducible results in their hands after an extensive trial against cells sensitized by a variety of antibodies.